Aikido

Aikido is one of the most modern Japanese martial arts. It was created by the great master Morihei Ueshiba (O' Sensei).

Simply put, Aikido means:

AI: union, harmony.
KI: universal energy.
DO: path.

In other words: the path to harmonize with the universe. Aikido stands out from other martial arts because of its absence of competition; there is no rivalry. The true “competition” is with oneself: awakening interest in our own evolution and in what surrounds us.

BENEFITS OF PRACTICE

When we want to strengthen the body we usually choose a sport discipline. To strengthen the spirit we turn to our religion or to practices such as meditation. Aikido unites both concepts: it strengthens the body through intense practice and, through Ki, shows a path of inner work.

There is no age to start. Those who begin young usually develop the physical and technical side more easily. Those who start later may find the development of Ki especially attractive. In any case, each person finds a balance between both facets according to their possibilities.

With appropriate practice, physical improvements soon arrive: more flexibility, better joint mobility, healthier habits for the spine, greater vigor and a calmer relationship with the environment. Hostility toward others fades and a clearer way of being present appears.

THE ESSENCE OF AIKIDO

O' Sensei created Aikido with a single purpose: that the people who practice it would be able to understand and make the most of that natural source that exists in each of us.

The techniques in Aikido can be lethal if used unconsciously. For that reason, competition within Aikido is unworkable—unless an essential part of the art were removed (which would distort it). Anyone who turns Aikido into victory-versus-defeat is taking steps backward and putting students at risk.

In Aikido there is no ranking of “better or worse”. No one does it better than someone else: one simply has more or less experience. And any student, advanced or beginner, can teach us something.

In my case, I chose to train with Yoshimitsu Yamada Shihan. Over time I confirmed that choice: his direct teaching, his attention to basics, and his way of caring for the dojo and the people left a deep mark. After his passing in 2023, his legacy is still present on every tatami.

Manuel García.
National Instructor, 6th Dan Aikikai.